Kawasaki STX-15F Preparation for Storage, Cooling System, Bilge System, Engine Oil, Fuel System

15-2 STORAGE

Preparation for Storage

During the winter, or whenever the watercraft will not be in use for a long period of time, proper storage is essential. It consists of checking and replacing missing or worn parts; lubricating parts to ensure that they do not become rusted; and, in general, preparing the watercraft so that when the time comes to use it again, it will be in top condition.

NOTE

○Personal watercraft is not meant to be left in the water for extended periods. Continuous exposure to water over a long period of time will cause the hull paint to bubble and peel. It also causes electrolytic erosion of the metal parts of the pump, decreasing its service life. Larger boats which are left in the water must be hauled out periodically, so the bottom of the hull can be scraped and repainted with anti-fouling paint. They also usually have a sacrificial anode to reduce electrolytic erosion of metal parts in contact with the water.

Cooling System

•Clean the cooling system (see the Periodic Maintenance chapter).

Bilge System

•Clean the bilge system (see the Periodic Maintenance chapter). Before reconnecting the hoses to the plastic breather fitting, blow air through both hoses [A] to force all water out of the bilge system.

Engine Oil

•Change the engine oil (see Engine Lubrication System in Periodic Maintenance chapter).

Fuel System

WARNING

Gasoline is extremely flammable and can be explo- sive under certain conditions. Pull the lanyard key off the stop button. Do not smoke. Make sure the area is well ventilated and free from any source of flame or sparks; this includes any appliance with a pilot light.

•Drain the fuel tank. This should be done with a siphon or pump.

[A]Siphon Hose

NOTE

○Lift the stern upward a little so that fuel and water in the bottom of the fuel tank may flow toward the fuel filter to completely drain the fuel tank.